Review: 2013 ‘Chairman's Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon Grace Vineyards | Shanxi, China

Reviewed in March 2019 by Kyle Reno Lenci

The Chairman’s Reserve the top tier red from Grace Vineyards, which is saying something because this company has some good wines.  This vintage saw 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc.  18 months age in French oak barrels (80% new).

The label is unassuming yet elegant.  The wax name seal of Judy Chan’s father (Judy is the CEO of the winery, her father the founder) adorns each bottle to guarantee the highest quality.

The color was redder and lighter than I expected, although it was still comfortably garnet.  Its bouquet was particularly complex for me. Classic cassis, black currant and capsicum dominated.  Vegetal tomato leaf, dark berries (both ripe and stewed) rounded out the primary characteristics. The oak character was well integrated with clove, nutmeg and toast pleasantly hiding under all the boldness of the primary flavors.

Enjoyably, there were also hints of tar, cedar, black pepper mixed throughout showing how elegantly the wine aged.  On the palette a bitter coffee finish lingers long. That coffee finish was a pleasant surprise at the end of every sip.

Also notably, the wine tastes juicier than it smells.  Bold, chalky tannin and high acid give this wine great body.

Decant this wine an hour before serving.  Cellar for up to 15 years after harvest. Pair it with high quality red meats with an abundance of flavor and bold sauce.  Maybe a Beef Bearnaise?